Succulent Barbecue Ribs Recipe

Discover the secret to mouthwatering, tender ribs with this foolproof barbecue ribs recipe. Perfect for gatherings or a delightful family meal, these ribs are a surefire hit every time they’re on the table. Let’s dive into this smoky, flavorful journey.

Ingredients

For the Ribs

• 2 racks of pork baby back ribs (approximately 4 pounds)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon kosher salt
• 1 tablespoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)

For the Barbecue Sauce

• 1 cup ketchup
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon mustard
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon honey (or more to taste)

Preparation Process

1. Preparing the Ribs:
1. Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Remove the thin membrane from the back of ribs. Use a knife to gently pry it up from a bone and then pull it off using a paper towel to grip it.
3. Mix together the kosher salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper in a small bowl to create the rub.
4. Rub olive oil over both sides of the ribs. Generously apply the seasoning mixture, ensuring all areas are covered for a robust flavor.

2. Oven-Roasting:
1. Wrap each rack of ribs tightly in aluminum foil, ensuring no gaps where steam could escape.
2. Place wrapped ribs on a baking sheet and roast in the preheated oven for about 2.5 hours. This slow cook ensures the meat becomes tender.

3. Preparing the Barbecue Sauce:
1. While the ribs are roasting, combine ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, salt, and honey in a saucepan over medium heat.
2. Stir occasionally, allowing the mixture to reach a gentle simmer. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for 10 minutes, stirring often. Adjust sweetness with more honey if needed.
3. Remove the sauce from heat and set aside.

4. Grilling the Ribs:
1. Once the ribs have finished roasting, remove them from the oven and carefully unwrap from foil.
2. Increase the oven temperature to 425°F (220°C), or preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
3. Place ribs on a foil-lined baking sheet (or directly onto the grill) and generously slather with barbecue sauce on both sides.
4. Grill or roast for an additional 10-15 minutes, turning halfway and basting with more sauce to ensure a sticky glaze, until the ribs develop a lightly charred crust.

Recipe Summary

Total Time:

• Preparation: 20 minutes
• Cooking: 2 hours 45 minutes
• Total: 3 hours 5 minutes

Servings: 6

Calories: Approximately 500 calories per serving

Indulge in these luscious barbecue ribs—slow-cooked to perfection and finished with a sweet, tangy glaze. Whether served with classic coleslaw or alongside buttery corn-on-the-cob, these ribs are set to be the star of your next culinary gathering. Enjoy the praises from your family and friends with this delectable homemade delight!